The Digest | Jan–Mar 2020

JAN UARY–M ARC H

Advocacy in Action

Legislators Dive into the Building Process

SEEN + HEARD:

BUSINESS TIPS:

Recognizing Excellence at the BIG Night

Recruitment + Retention in the Trades

2020

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Over a Century of Trusted Service

Contents JAN UA RY – M A R CH

2 0 2 0

36

PRESENTING THE 2019 BIG NIGHT AWARD WINNERS

HOUSING 2020

BUSINESS TIPS

6

22 Q+A: Ask the Building Inspector

9

From the President

President Gary Kraemer looks ahead to a year of partnership and growth

Peter Kulczyk answers your questions

24 Finding + Retaining Your Most Valuable Assets

2020 Board of Directors Meet the leadership team of Housing First Minnesota

16

UP NEXT

12 Events

Mark your calendar for these events you won’t want to miss

14 Need to Know

A quick look at what’s going on at your association

Employee recruitment and retention

27 5 Things Every Website Needs in 2020

First impressions are everything

IN THE INDUSTRY

16 Advocacy in Action Catch up on the ways your advocacy team is working to advance the American dream of homeownership

18 Industry Data

A look at the housing market and the latest industry data

20 New Building Code: Three Years in the Making

14

Dive into the building code process

27

JANUARY-MARCH 2020 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

The Digest

3

Digest T H E

Board of Directors EXECUTIVE BOARD PRESIDENT GARY KRAEMER, John Kraemer and Sons, Inc. VICE PRESIDENT TODD POLIFKA, Custom One Homes TREASURER JAMES JULKOWSKI, Julkowski, Inc. ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT ED ENGELBRECHT, Pella Windows & Doors SECRETARY RYAN RUTZICK, All, Inc. IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT JOHN RASK, M/I Homes PAST ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT CARLA WARNER, Warners’ Stellian Appliance BOARD + COMMITTEE CHAIRS ADVOCACY CHAIR BILL BURGESS, Lennar

ON THE COVER: CONSTRUCTION IS UNDERWAY FOR THE FOUNDATION’S THIRD HOUSING FOR HEROES PROJECT.

AMBASSADOR CHAIR DALE LOEFFLER, Marvin ARTISAN HOME TOUR CHAIR JOHN KRAEMER, John Kraemer & Sons, Inc. LARGE VOLUME BUILDERS COMMITTEE JAMES SLAIKEU, D.R. Horton, Inc. - Minnesota PARADE OF HOMES CHAIR SARAH DULONG, Ron Clark Construction PAST PRESIDENTS’ ADVISORY COUNCIL CURT CHRISTENSEN, Lee Lyn Construction, LLC REMODELERS CHAIR JASON MYRLIE, J Carsten Remodeling SMALL VOLUME BUILDERS CHAIR ART PRATT, Pratt Homes

BUILDING FUTURES

30 Housing for Heroes Offers Safe, Stable Housing for Veterans Meet a first-hand witness to the effect stable housing has on the lives of veterans in need

MEMBER AT-LARGE JIM FUSCHETTO, Lyman Lumber Co. MEMBER AT-LARGE JOHN QUINLIVAN, Gordon James Construction, Inc.

Staff LEADERSHIP EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

DAVID SIEGEL

CREATIVE SERVICES

MEMBERS O N LY

32 Member Spotlight: Award Winners

The 2019 awards recognize excellence in several areas—from quality and value of construction to business ethics

44 In the Media 46 Member News

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & CREATIVE DAWNITA PARMELY EDITOR & SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER LAURA BURT SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER HANNAH SWAN GRAPHIC DESIGNER CLARE BUCHE DIGITAL/GRAPHIC DESIGNER VICTORIA STURZL ADVERTISING & SPONSORSHIP FULFILLMENT COORDINATOR LAURIE SPARTZ CREATIVE SERVICES & TECH COORDINATOR CASEY SCOZZARI ADVOCACY DIRECTOR OF ADVOCACY JAMES VAGLE POLITICAL ENGAGEMENT MANAGER REGULATORY AFFAIRS MANAGER

MARK FOSTER

NICK ERICKSON

49 Member Discounts

COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER KATIE ELFSTROM

50 Elite Sponsors

ADVOCACY COORDINATOR KATE WIGLEY

52 Photo Galleries

The BIG Night KickStart Green Path Building Conference Member Buck Auction State of the Industry

62 Top 10 of 2019

Executive Director David Siegel reflects on the past year

COMMUNICATIONS & RESEARCH SPECIALIST KRISTEN OBER

MEETINGS + EVENTS MEETING & EVENT MANAGER

NICOLE COON

MEETING & EVENT COORDINATOR

EMILY YOUNGS

EDUCATION EDUCATION & SPECIAL PROGRAMS MANAGER TOM GAVARAS EDUCATION & SPECIAL PROGRAMS COORDINATOR MARY BETH BLOM FINANCE, MEMBERSHIP + ADMINISTR ATION DIRECTOR OF FINANCE & DEVELOPMENT JANICE MEYER ACCOUNTING MANAGER

TAMMI HALL

MEMBERSHIP MANAGER

HEATHER GRIFFIS

MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

NICOLLE MECHELKE

EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATOR MARY SCHWEICH FOUNDATION FOUNDATION MANAGER DONNIE BROWN

SHELLY BARRETT

C O N TAC T U S

FOUNDATION COORDINATOR

2960 Centre Pointe Drive, Roseville, MN 55113 • 651-697-1954 • HousingFirstMN.org

INDEPENDENT CONTR ACTORS

The Digest magazine is an official publication of Housing First Minnesota. The Digest is published and distributed four times per year to its members and others associated with the housing industry.

Neither the advertisers, nor Housing First Minnesota, will be responsible or liable for misinformation, misprints, typographical errors, etc., herein contained. For advertising rates, resource files or address change information, contact Housing First Minnesota. Suggestions, ideas and letters are welcome.

If circumstances require, Housing First Minnesota reserves the right to increase or decrease the number of The Digest issues published on an annual basis.

ADVERTISING & SPONSORSHIP SALES KORI MEEWES & BRAD MEEWES, and more by Kori

4

The Digest

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY-MARCH 2020

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FROM THE PRESIDENT

Building Something Great As I begin the new year as your Housing First Minnesota president, I’ve reflected on the work done by all those who have led our association before me, and I am eager to get to work advancing the American dream of homeownership for all Minnesotans.

At our recent strategic retreat, our leadership team discussed the importance of bringing our message of housing affordability to a broader audience. You’ve heard us talk about this again and again, but it can’t be emphasized enough: affordability has a major impact on every Minnesotan—from our families to our employees to our coworkers— and it is important to recognize our role in ensuring housing is available to all. That’s why this year we’re utilizing all of our association’s programs to kick off a fresh consumer campaign that helps create a movement that leads to meaningful change.

Everything we do here at the association is connected to this common goal. Our advocacy work ensures we’re supporting housingfriendly candidates in elections, creating sensible regulations, and researching ways to improve the housing market for all Minnesotans.

6

The Digest

Our association events help build connections between industry professionals to keep the market competitive. The Parade of Homes, Remodelers Showcase, and Artisan Home Tour give consumers a transparent way to shop for homes, builders, remodelers, and communities that fit their needs. Contractor University and our Green Path program keep members educated on the latest industry innovations and best practices. And our members-only benefits like our new Association Health Plan and auto rebate program are designed to help members grow their businesses while creating topnotch products and services. All of these come together to create a stronger housing market in Minnesota—one which is in dire need of these ongoing efforts.

There are many more examples of the ways in which our programs here at the association help drive the American dream of homeownership, but what I want to stress to you, our members, is that we are all a part of something bigger than ourselves.

We are building something great together, and I look forward to a year of partnership and continued growth.

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY-MARCH 2020

GARY KRAEMER 2020 HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA PRESIDENT

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2020 LEADERSHIP

Board of Directors THANK YOU to our association’s elected volunteer leaders for their dedication to advancing homeownership for all Minnesotans.

PRESIDENT*

VICE PRESIDENT*

TREASURER*

Gary Kraemer

Todd Polifka

James Julkowski

John Kraemer & Sons, Inc.

Custom One Homes

Julkowski, Inc.

ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT*

Ed Engelbrecht

SECRETARY*

Ryan Rutzick

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT*

John Rask

All, Inc.

Pella Windows & Doors

M/I Homes

PAST ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT*

ADVOCACY CHAIR

AMBASSADOR CHAIR

ARTISAN HOME TOUR CHAIR

LARGE VOLUME BUILDERS CHAIR

Carla Warner

Bill Burgess

Dale Loeffler

John Kraemer

James Slaikeu

Warners’ Stellian Appliance

PARADE OF HOMES CHAIR

Sarah Dulong

Ron Clark Construction

Lennar

PAST PRESIDENTS’ ADVISORY COUNCIL

Curt Christensen

Lee Lyn Construction, LLC

Marvin

REMODELERS CHAIR

Jason Myrlie

J Carsten Remodeling

John Kraemer & Sons, Inc.

D.R. Horton, Inc. - Minnesota

SMALL VOLUME BUILDERS CHAIR

MEMBER AT-LARGE

MEMBER AT-LARGE

Art Pratt

Jim Fuschetto Lyman Lumber Co.

John Quinlivan

Pratt Homes

Gordon James Construction, Inc.

* Denotes executive board

2020 Initiatives

Homeownership Campaign

Evolving Business Model

Culture + Core Values

Launch an innovative homeownership campaign that creates a movement among Minnesotans. Our powerful consumer brand and our modern, comprehensive advocacy program are coming together to spread awareness of the housing affordability crisis we are facing—and share common-sense solutions to fixing it.

Diversify sources of revenue to ensure a strong association for our members and engage the broader business community. Our sustaining member partnerships help bring new, powerful voices to the discussion on housing affordability, while refreshing our product selection gives all our members new and effective vehicles to reach their customers.

Ensure we are exemplifying the five core values of the association in all we do: passion, competence, competitiveness, innovation, and collaboration. As we work together, all our actions create a culture of inclusivity and innovation and are for the greater good for the housing industry, homeowners, and all Minnesotans.

JANUARY-MARCH 2020 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

The Digest

9

2020 LEADERSHIP

Board of Directors THANK YOU to our Foundation’s volunteer leaders for their dedication to building futures through housing.

PRESIDENT*

VICE PRESIDENT*

TREASURER*

Jody Kern

Paul Roecker Lyman Roofing & Siding

Kathy Greiner

Rebuilding Together Twin Cites

MEMBER AT-LARGE*

Wells Fargo Home Mortgage

SECRETARY*

PAST PRESIDENT*

Kate Hamilton

Dennis Medo

MEMBER AT-LARGE*

MEMBER AT-LARGE

MEMBER AT-LARGE

Meg Jaeger

Bob Bennett

Sunny Bowman

MEMBER AT-LARGE

MEMBER AT-LARGE

MEMBER AT-LARGE

Melissa Engler

Jim Fuschetto

Pat Hegseth

MEMBER AT-LARGE

MEMBER AT-LARGE

MEMBER AT-LARGE

Lynne JensenNelson

Mike Murtaugh

Custom One Homes

Richard Berg

Contract Interiors, Inc.

2020 Initiatives

Project Selection + Partnership

Mega Remodel

Dakota County Lumber Co.

Develop a set of guidelines to help all members and partners understand how the Foundation adopts projects. These will guide the Foundation in selecting the highest quality homeless care provider agencies and the most appropriate construction projects to ensure that a positive outcome is derived for the ultimate client, and a positive experience occurs for the builder, the trades, and the agency.

Industry + Civic Leader Recruitment Recruit outstanding industry and civic leaders with the appropriate skills and passion for our cause of eliminating homelessness. Cultivating these relationships with industryrelated organizations will aid in diversifying the leadership team while continuing to create a network of trusted advisors and future Foundation leaders.

Foundation Brand Awareness + Marketing Implement a yearly marketing plan, enhance the Foundation website and social media, and engage with the press to elevate the profile of the Foundation within the industry, with key influencers, and to an ever-broadening audience.

US Bank Home Mortgage

Conversion-omics Speakers & Consultants

Lyman Lumber Co.

Business Essentials

MEMBER AT-LARGE * Denotes executive board

10

The Digest

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY-MARCH 2020

Sam Wick

FocalPoint Flooring Cabinets & Design

Scherer Bros.

Lumber Co.

Jodie Unger

Coldwell Banker Burnet

HOUSING FIRST MN IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT

John Rask M/I Homes

UP NEXT

Events JANUARY–APRIL 2020

Find the entire 2020 event calendar and register online at HousingFirstMN.org/events

Contractor University Earn your continuing education credits at Contractor University. You’ll find courses on building/energy codes and the latest in building science taught by experts in their fields. Plus, legal, business management, and specialized courses you won’t find anywhere else.

REGISTER AT

ContractorU.com

Classroom courses available now-March 2020 Online courses available year-round

KickStart

start

Join us for KickStart, our member event built to help you make the most out of your membership. Meet the Housing First Minnesota staff, mingle with other members, and get your questions answered. Members old and new are welcome to attend.

REGISTER AT

HousingFirstMN.org/ events

Feb. 4, 2020

Builders and Remodelers Show (BRS) Discover new products and services from more than 180 vendors at the 2020 Builders and Remodelers Show! See the latest trends, build new relationships, and gain the tools you need to succeed at the largest building industry product show in the upper Midwest. Plus, it’s free to attend!

REGISTER TO ATTEND OR BOOK YOUR BOOTH AT

BRSMN.org

Feb. 12, 2020

Parade of Homes Tour hundreds of new homes from Housing First Minnesota members all across the Twin Cities during the largest Parade of Homes in the country. Homes are open Thursdays-Sundays from noon-6 p.m.

PLAN YOUR TOUR AT

ParadeofHomes.org

March 7-April 5, 2020

Housing Day at the Capitol No one knows the housing market better than you. Legislators need to hear from you. Share your story in the new era at our annual Housing Day at the Capitol.

March 23, 2020

12

The Digest

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY-MARCH 2020

REGISTER AT

HousingDayMN.org

Remodelers Showcase

PLAN YOUR TOUR AT

Tour dozens of remodeled homes from Housing First Minnesota members all across the Twin Cities. Homes are open from noon-6 p.m.

ParadeofHomes.org

April 3-5, 2020

KickStart

start

Join us for KickStart, our member event built to help you make the most out of your membership. Meet the Housing First Minnesota staff, mingle with other members, and get your questions answered. Members old and new are welcome to attend.

REGISTER AT

HousingFirstMN.org/ events

April 8, 2020

Housing First Minnesota Foundation Gala Celebrate 25 years of building futures through housing at the annual Housing First Minnesota Foundation Gala at the J.W. Marriott - Mall of America. Enjoy fabulous food and networking, win fantastic prizes during the auctions, and show your support for the tangible impact your Foundation is making on the lives of Minnesotans in need.

REGISTER AT

HousingFirstMN Foundation.org

April 18, 2020

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JANUARY-MARCH 2020 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

The Digest

13

UP NEXT

Need to Know Scholarships We’re now accepting applications for our 2020-2021 scholarship program.

The scholarship selections will give priority to those seeking to learn a constructionrelated trade including carpentry, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and other trades. $84,000 in scholarship funds have been awarded since 2014.

APPLICATIONS ARE DUE MARCH 16, 2020

HousingFirstMN.org/scholarships

Contractor University Classes Earn your continuing education credits at Contractor University. You’ll find courses on building/energy codes and the latest in building science taught by experts in their fields. Plus, legal, business management, and specialized courses you won’t find anywhere else.

Classroom courses are available through March 2020. Online courses available year-round.

Parade of Homes App Heading out to tour homes on the Spring Parade of Homes and Remodelers Showcase? Download our brand-new Parade of Homes app to help navigate your tour.

SEARCH IN THE APP STORE

Parade of Homes Minnesota

REGISTER AT

ContractorU.com

Update Your Logos Last year, we rebranded to Housing First Minnesota, and with it we have a whole new suite of logos and graphics for our members.

Download them online to update the logo across your website, social media, print advertising, and more!

DOWNLOAD MEDIA KIT AT

HousingFirstMN.org

Everything Home Introducing Everything Home Minnesota, a year-round reference guide for homeowners and members. We are taking our annual membership directory and expanding it to include category features on showrooms, companies, products, and services; member company listings; and classified listings. Watch for the publication out mid-March 2020.

ADVERTISING QUESTIONS? CONTACT

Kori Meewes Kori@HousingFirstMN.org or Brad Meewes Brad@HousingFirstMN.org

14

The Digest

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY-MARCH 2020

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Find a loan officer online at bellbankmortgage.com

20563

IN THE INDUSTRY

LEGISLATIVE ADVOCACY

Senate Select Committee Dives into the Building Process The Senate Select Committee on Homeownership continued its work in October with three special site visits.

Carpentry Contractors Co. and Lennar showcased innovative ways the industry is working to streamline the construction process and deliver housing affordability.

Advocacy IN ACTION

The Select Committee got a behind-the-scenes look at the emerging technology of panelization. Additionally, they visited a common interest community to discuss the obstacles the industry faces in providing one of the most affordable products.

The Select Committee’s work is expected to result in 2020 proposals in the upcoming legislative session.

LEGAL ADVOCACY

REGULATORY ADVOCACY

Legal Action Taken Against the City of Dayton

Storm Shelter Ordinances Knocked Down

Housing First Minnesota initiated legal action against the City of Dayton in August, following its creation of an illegal off-site transportation fee. The issue was heard in court in November and a decision is expected soon.

Housing First Minnesota sought a determination from the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry this fall as to whether a municipality can enact its own safe room/storm shelter requirements.

Under Minnesota State Law, municipalities do not have the authority to collect traffic impact fees from new home development. Such fees can add thousands of dollars to the cost of new homes, apartments, and senior living centers.

The Minnesota Supreme Court has twice ruled against cities’ attempts to collect these fees.

In October, the state’s Chief Building Official responded to Housing First Minnesota’s request for clarification and stated clearly and unequivocally that safe room and storm shelter mandates exceed the state building code and thus violate state law. Cities that had storm shelter requirements for slab-on-grade homes are removing the mandate.

16

The Digest

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY-MARCH 2020

ISSUE ADVOCACY

REGULATORY ADVOCACY

National Housing Discussion Makes First Stop in Minneapolis

Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry Releases Proposed Minnesota Residential Building Code

The housing crisis in our state continues to make headlines and stir discussion. In November, minority leader Rep. Kurt Daudt, Rep. Mohamud Noor, Mayor Jacob Frey, and other area leaders spoke at The Hill’s Building The Dream event in Minneapolis. The discussion covered why it is more expensive to build homes in Minnesota compared to other major Midwest markets and highlighted the need for more affordable housing in our state.

“Ninety percent of Minnesotans want to own a home. We need to make that as accessible as possible so everybody can participate in that.

Homeownership is a phenomenal thing for a community, for the stability of a community, and the stability of a family,” said Rep. Daudt.

“If regulations are in the way we should get rid of them,” said Rep. Noor.

After working for the past year on developing the new residential building code, the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) released the proposed residential building code, Chapter 1309, on Sept. 13.

The new building code is set to go into effect on March 31, 2020. Housing First Minnesota has submitted official comments on the proposed code changes to the DLI.

UP NEXT

ELECTORAL ADVOCACY

Gearing up for 2020

Housing Champion Reelected in Bloomington

Although the Legislature is not in session, work at the Capitol has been busy this summer and fall. Your Housing First Minnesota advocacy team has been working closely with legislators to dive deeper into the challenges facing the housing industry. We expect policy initiatives to be generated in the coming weeks as we enter the 2020 legislative session.

Shawn Nelson, owner of New Spaces and former Housing First Minnesota president, was reelected to the Bloomington City Council in November.

Nelson won his first election in 2017 to fill a vacancy on the council for two years. His recent victory gives Nelson an additional four years representing the second district in the state’s fifth largest city.

At the same time, many legislative candidates are announcing their campaigns for election/reelection.

The Housing First Minnesota political team will be meeting with many of these candidates to discuss and advance important housing issues as the 2020 election nears.

know a housing supporter running for office?

CONTACT MARK@HOUSINGFIRSTMN.ORG

JANUARY-MARCH 2020 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

The Digest

17

IN THE INDUSTRY

Love Market data?

SEE THE LATEST HOT SHEET AT BLOG.HOUSINGFIRSTMN.ORG

Industry Data

SPONSORED BY

Twin Cities Housing Market ANNUAL HOUSING STARTS & FORCECAST

According to the Minneapolis Area REALTORS® (MAR), inventory has grown this year, but supply remains tight for first-time homebuyers and downsizing households competing for homes under $350,000. At this price point, MAR says multiple offers and homes selling for over list price in record time are still common. As builders struggle to replenish inventory due to regulatory constraints, high costs, and a labor shortage, the lack of affordable homes has prompted many owners to stay put. The Twin Cities market is still significantly undersupplied with only 2.3 months of inventory.

Minneapolis/St. Paul single-family detached, townhome, and duplex units only 2005 2006 2007

ALL PROPERTY TYPES MEDIAN SALES PRICE

NEW SINGLE-FAMILY MEDIAN SALES PRICE

$265,000

2008 2009

$417,450

OCTOBER 2018

+

$280,000

5.6

2010

OCTOBER 2018

%

+

Y/Y CHANGE

$425,000

OCTOBER 2019

2

%

2011

Y/Y CHANGE

2012

OCTOBER 2019

MN REALTORS®

MN REALTORS®

INVENTORY OF HOMES FOR SALE

TOTAL CLOSED SALES

2013 2014

12,317

2015 2016

5,324

OCTOBER 2018

-

11,607

OCTOBER 2018

5.8 %

+

Y/Y CHANGE

5,391

OCTOBER 2019

2017

1.3%

Y/Y CHANGE

2018

OCTOBER 2019

US CENSUS

2019

US CENSUS

2020 2021

YEAR-TO-DATE SINGLE-FAMILY PERMITS

METRO BUILDING UNITS PAST 12 MONTHS

2,000 0 1,500

1,000

KEYSTONE REPORT

The Digest

Y/Y CHANGE

KEYSTONE REPORT

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY-MARCH 2020

NOV 19

OCT 19

SEPT 19

AUG 19

JULY 19

JUN 19

MAY 19

APR 19

MAR 19

FEB 19

JAN 19

500

DEC 18

OCTOBER 2019

6%

NOV 18

+

5,726

18

10,000

15,000

Predictions for 2020

5,383

OCTOBER 2018

5,000

ZONDA / METROSTUDY

0

With a strong end to 2019 the Twin Cities housing market saw some growth in new home construction. Metrostudy predicts 2020 will be either flat or see a slight decline in volume, which will continue to into 2021.

20,000

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IN THE INDUSTRY

New Building Code: Three Years in the Making On a cold January morning in 2018, the large conference room at the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry’s main office in St. Paul was filled to capacity.

The group had gathered to kick off the official process to adopt Minnesota’s next set of building codes. Attendees of the meeting represented local code officials, sub-contractors of all kinds, architects, commercial builders, building operators, affordable housing groups, engineers, fire departments, special interest groups representing cities and energy conservation, and of course, homebuilders.

Many of those in attendance that day would have a direct advisory role in turning the 2015 and 2018 International Model Codes (I-Codes) into the new Minnesota Building Codes.

While this January meeting was the official start of the rulemaking process, the Minnesota Department of Labor

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and Industry’s (DLI) technical staff had begun its work much earlier.

Pre-Work Minnesota adopts a new building code every six years and the Department’s technical staff needed to review both the 2015 and 2018 I-Codes for changes to the 2012 I-Codes, from which Minnesota’s current codes are based.

This months-long work, done quietly behind the scenes, was necessary in assembling all the changes to the I-Codes of the past six years and laid the foundation to a smooth code update process.

TAG Process From January through April 2018, subject matter experts gathered for

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY-MARCH 2020

three- to four-hour meetings every few weeks. These individuals were appointed by the Department to service as technical experts to review the I-Code changes in their particular area of focus: Building Code Administration (Chapter 1300), Commercial Building Code (Chapter 1305), Commercial Code and Fire Code Compatibility (Chapters 1305 and 7511), Elevator Code (Chapter 1307), Residential Building Code (Chapter 1309), Existing Building Code (Chapter 1311), Energy Code (Chapters 1322 and 1323), Accessibility Code (Chapter 131), and the Mechanical and Fuel Gas Code (Chapter 1346).

At more than a dozen meetings, Housing First Minnesota’s four appointees and advocacy staff spent nearly 100 hours advocating for

more affordability in new home construction and remodeling.

not make any recommendation of a new Residential Energy Code.

Throughout every meeting of the Energy Code TAG, every discussion of the residential energy code changes turned into a debate on whether the state needed to adopt a new energy code for new home construction. Housing First Minnesota sent the Department a memo in February 2018 saying that a new residential energy code was not needed. In March, Housing First Minnesota sent another memo to the Department, indicating that if the Department chose not to adopt a new residential energy code, Housing First Minnesota would create a performance path alternative to the existing prescriptive code.

Draft Proposed Codes Releases

In the Residential Code TAG, fire sprinkler advocates unsuccessfully sought to overturn the BATC v. DLI decision and require sprinklers in all new one- and two-family homes.

Housing First Minnesota laid out the case that sprinklers in new homes are unnecessary as there has not been a reported non-arson fire death in a home built since 2004.

TAG Reports and Comments In May 2018, the DLI released a report on all TAG activity, including an overview of all major actions recommended by the Department based on TAG expert input. One month later, on June 15, the Department released its comprehensive TAG report to DLI’s Construction Codes Advisory Council, and included comments received. This report, which cited Housing First Minnesota’s comments, recommended against fire sprinklers in new homes and did

For the next year, work progressed quietly behind the scenes at the Department’s office while the technical and rulemaking staff worked to turn the TAG reports and recommendations into the proposed building codes.

In June 2019, DLI began releasing the various proposed building codes for public comment. Two Construction Code Advisory Council (CCAC) meetings were held in which DLI reviewed the proposed code changes and answered questions from CCAC members.

Housing First Minnesota weighed in on the proposed Residential Building Code and praised the Department for committing to affordability by not adopting the sprinkler requirement for the new building code.

Waiting + Final Steps While the proposed Residential Building Code and the other various building codes have been released, a decision on the adoption of a new residential energy code has not yet been made. The Department has indicated it is waiting on the final cost-benefit review of the model Residential Energy Code by the U.S. Department of Energy before deciding on the adoption of a new energy code. A preliminary review of the residential energy code by the Department indicated the lifetime payback of the new model energy code would be 30 years or more. A final decision will be up to the Commissioner of Labor and Industry.

Code discussion topics AFFORDABILITY:

First code process where affordability was considered equal to safety and durability.

SMOKE + CARBON MONOXIDE ALARMS:

Despite an effort to change the code, battery powered smoke and CO alarms are still to be allowed in renovated spaces without direct access to an attic, unless the ceiling itself is being modified.

SPRINKLERS:

An attempt to mandate sprinklers on all new single-family homes was rejected early in the TAG process.

All new building codes are expected to go into effect on March 31, 2020.

Housing First Minnesota Official TAG appointees: CODE ADMINISTRATION

RESIDENTIAL BUILDING CODE

Mike Swanson

Brent Nygaard

STRUCTURAL CODE

ENERGY CODE

Mike Barden

Ross Anderson

Brandl Anderson

Pulte Homes

Lennar Minnesota

ENERGY CODE:

No final decision on the adoption of a new Residential Energy Code has been made.

The Energy Network Worldwide

JANUARY-MARCH 2020 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

The Digest

21

Q+A

Ask the

Building Inspector WITH PETER KULCZYK GREEN CODE KNOWLEDGE

Q. We are proposing to construct a new house with an attached garage in Minnesota. This attached garage will have a gas unit heater. Does the energy code require the garage walls and ceiling be insulated to the same standard as the house because of the proposed gas unit heater?

A. Most likely yes, but it depends upon the BTU rating of the gas unit heater.

The code states: “Minnesota Rules MR1322.0100; Subpart 4, Compliance, part B. Low Energy Buildings.”

“The following buildings, or portions thereof, separated from the remainder of the building by building thermal envelope assemblies complying with this code are exempt from the building thermal envelope provisions of this code:

do you Have business or building questions?

We’ll feature a Q+A with various experts and topics each issue.

Send your questions to ASK@ HOUSINGFIRSTMN.ORG

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1. Those with a peak design rate of energy usage less than 3.4 BTU/hour per square foot of floor area; 2. Those that do not contain conditioned space.”

So if this gas unit heater is 3.4 BTU/hour per square foot or greater, the attached garage will need to meet the thermal

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY-MARCH 2020

envelope requirements in the code, including proper insulation, air barrier (and blower door testing), vapor retarders, and glazing efficiency of the windows.

But the problem with this is that it is pretty much impossible.

Why? First, it would require the slab-on-grade foundation wall to be insulated to an R-value of at least 10 around the entire perimeter which is not very challenging, except at the location of the overhead door that now lack a thermal break because the concrete slab runs under the door to the exterior. This attached garage “conditioned space” would also need to pass a blower door test and this would be almost impossible because of the air gap around the four sides of the standard 16’ overhead garage door. Third, it would require the garage walls to be R=20 or R=21 (depending on climate zone) and the roof/ceiling would need to be insulated to an R-value of at least 49. Fourth, the walls and ceiling would require a vapor retarder and sealed interior side air barrier. Fifth, the windows would all need to have a U-factor of 0.32 or lower. In addition to significantly raising the cost of the house, this attached garage would most likely still not meet the minimum energy code requirements.

So, if a municipality were to require energy code compliance for these attached garages for the new homes they would need to really understand the specifics of what they were asking for

and realize that it is relatively impossible.

Q. In Minnesota, when installing a gas unit heater of any BTU rating in an existing attached garage (to a house) or existing detached garage, do these garages need to meet the provisions in the Minnesota Residential Energy Code for the exterior wall envelope? Keep in mind that “existing” refers to a structure that has already been issued a Certificate of Occupancy.

A. No, because they are “existing,” the code does not require that the garage exterior envelope (walls, ceiling, and foundation) be insulated when installing the gas unit heater.

Q. We have used the same residential building code in Minnesota since early 2015.

We understand that Minnesota is considering the adoption of a new building code and energy code in the near future.

If we have a house plan reviewed under the existing code and during construction Minnesota adopts a new code, then what code applies?

Will this affect the house that we have under construction?

A. In Minnesota, the code that was in effect at the “time of application” of the house permit is the code that will apply to the completion of the project.

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BUSINESS TIPS

Finding + Retaining Your Most Valuable Assets WRITTEN BY MAURA KELLER

Your second construction manager in nine months just gave their notice.

They said they are leaving for better pay, better hours, better benefits, or better advancement opportunities.

When trade personnel leave a company, there is often a gaping hole to fill. What’s more, the popularity of America’s skilled trade careers has been in steady decline for the past few generations. That’s why employee procurement and retention efforts within the construction industry are vital components of every business’ success and can dramatically affect your bottom line.

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HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY-MARCH 2020

PA R T N E R S I N PROGRESS Recruiting and hiring the ideal trade professionals goes handin-hand with employee retention.

Every industry is plagued with its own set of challenges surrounding hiring and retaining skilled employees. And the construction industry is no exception.

Carly Schwieters, strategic growth and marketing at Schwieters Companies, says that when it comes to attracting and recruiting talent, Schwieters pitches their compensation and benefits packages, company culture, and training and

mentorship program. They also encourage their carpenters to tap into their personal networks for referrals.

“We’re constantly maintaining and growing relationships with high schools and trade schools where we can connect with future candidates, and we’ve partnered with a European recruiting firm that specializes in placing experienced carpenters with employers in the US,” Schwieters says.

The emphasis on employee retention is so important in the trades for a two different reasons: training investment and productivity.

CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY AGE BREAKDOWN 2018 CURRENT POPULATION SURVEY

% 22.5% 25.3% 21.4% 21.7% 9.0 16-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55+

As Megan Blakeborough, workforce development specialist at Lyman Companies explains, once the employee and company partner in training and skills acquisition, it’s very costly to retrain to close that skills gap with a new hire.

Van Slooten also serves on the Education and Workforce Development Committee at Housing First Minnesota, and he and his team reach out to young people at the high school level about the opportunities in construction.

“The most productive workforce is experienced, engaged, and well trained.

With the workforce dynamics today, there are more open jobs than candidates. We love our people and want them to grow with us,” Blakeborough says. “We have a defined progression for each role that we hire, and successful candidates can expect to earn more as they learn and conquer the next challenge.”

“As part of that, we are participating in a skills USA mentor program—the high schools put together teams that will be demonstrating their building skills at the Builders and Remodelers Show this coming February at the Minneapolis Convention Center,” Van Slooten says.

Kirk Van Slooten, senior construction manager at Elevation Homes agrees.

“Today if you lose an employee or a subcontractor, they are very hard to replace. It’s better to work on improving the people you already have a relationship with then to try and start over.”

For Lyman Companies, their corporate culture plays a pivotal role in employee retention. Beginning with the way they treat new team members from the first day, Lyman Companies commits to its people—they invest in them early, and often throughout their onboarding process, and as their career progresses.

“We want to provide them challenges that help them learn and grow with us. We strive to be a great place to work for, to buy from, and to own,” Blakeborough says.

As part of their recruitment process, Lyman Companies also has established several key relationships with tech colleges. Individuals from Lyman sit on advisory committees, participate in career fairs, and network with faculty and students.

“They look to us to help provide feedback.

Part of that relationship with schools is being of support for them in providing sound advice, industry knowledge, and career opportunities for their students,” Blakeborough says.

In addition to the relationships they’ve established with various tech schools, Blakeborough finds that company culture and opportunity are the biggest factors in recruitment and retention.

“We talk a lot about our values.

Immediately, when candidates walk into an office, the shop, or on a job site it’s important they instantly feel welcomed and at home,” Blakeborough says. “We want them to share in our sense of purpose and our business values. We like to share with candidates and employees the values we live are real—we hire and promote people based on our values.”

Schwieters Companies also works closely with instructors and is actively involved in advisory committees across several school systems. This allows the company to be part of the dialogue on course curriculum and provides the company’s take on any shifts or trends in the market that might inform that curriculum.

“Knowing budgets are limited, we provide schools with materials that afford students the hands-on experience that is vital to their success,” Schwieters says. “We connect with students in the classroom and at our facilities, where we host tours that provide insight and a firsthand look at our operation.”

ON THE HORIZON It is projected that 41% of the current construction workforce will retire by 2031, according to the National Center for Construction Education & Research, so recruitment of trade professionals is essential for the industry.

“It’s alarming—more than 21% [of construction workers] are over 55 years old,” Van Slooten says. “Young people seem to think college is their only choice and while that’s good, it’s not for everybody. We need to get the message out that there are good jobs with good pay in the construction industry.”

Because of this mindset, Lyman Companies is moving upstream to focus more on high schools and even middle schoolers—letting them know that they don’t have to go to college to have a wonderful career.

“If it’s not for them,” Blakeborough says.

“We have so many opportunities now and well into the future.”

WE WANT THEM TO SHARE IN OUR SENSE OF PURPOSE AND OUR BUSINESS VALUES. WE LIKE TO SHARE WITH CANDIDATES AND EMPLOYEES THE VALUES WE LIVE ARE REAL—WE HIRE AND PROMOTE PEOPLE BASED ON OUR VALUES. MEGAN BLAKEBOROUGH, LYMAN COMPANIES

JANUARY-MARCH 2020 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

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BUSINESS TIPS

5

Things Every Website Needs IN 2020

As we kick off a new year, it’s time for homebuilders to reassess their marketing strategies from the last 12 months and look for areas of improvement.

When it comes to looking for a marketing medium to put more resources toward, you can’t go wrong with opting to invest more on your website.

When a potential client or customer first engages with your company, your website is often where that initial interaction occurs. And first impressions are everything.

To ensure that your website is set up to help bring you more clients for the new year, here are five things every website needs in 2020.

ONE

An Updated Design and User-Friendly Interface Your site’s overall design, as well as how easy it is for users to navigate through, are both critical components to your website’s effectiveness. According to a recent Standford study, judgments on a company’s credibility are 75% based on the company’s website design.

A quick way to tell if your site needs a refresh is to look at it and simply ask yourself, does your website’s quality reflect the quality of the work that you and your team do? If the answer is no, then it may be time to update your site’s layout and overall design.

Depending on how savvy you are with web design, this may require working with a professional web designer. But it will be well worth it in the end.

JUDGMENTS ON A COMPANY’S CREDIBILITY ARE

75% BASED ON THE COMPANY’S WEBSITE DESIGN

TWO

A Blog to Engage Potential Customers With the start of a new decade, now is the perfect time to start that blog you’ve been thinking about adding to your website. But what exactly are the benefits of blogging for your company?

First, blogging helps position you as an authoritative figure in the construction industry. By creating well-written, thorough blogs on the latest industry trends and techniques, as well as news involving your business, visitors to your website will acknowledge your expertise.

Second, blogging can also help with your search engine optimization (SEO), which will help your business be easier to find on search engines like Google.

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BUSINESS TIPS

FOUR

Landing Pages for Your Key Services Having landing pages for your key and most profitable services is a great way to help you bring in more clients.

Imagine one of your prospective customers is looking for a kitchen remodeler in the Twin Cities Metro Area.

They might try searching “modern kitchen remodeler Twin Cities.”

If you offer remodeling services, then creating a dedicated landing page titled “Twin Cities Modern Kitchen Remodeler” will help ensure that they find you while searching for a remodeler. And don’t forget to add a contact form on your landing pages to help promote conversions!

THREE

FIVE

SEO to Be Discovered on Google

A Thorough “About” Page

SEO is difficult to describe in just a few paragraphs. But, that’s because there are many different strategies and tactics—like blogging—that you can take to improve your overall SEO.

Having a detailed “About Us” page that covers the company owners and your team is a must for homebuilders. Your clients want to know that they can trust whoever is working on their homes, and being transparent and open about who you are is a great way to win them over.

However, the concept behind SEO is quite simple. Essentially, it’s an activity that attempts to improve search engine rankings.

Your search engine ranking is whichever numbered position your website is listed on a search engine results page.

So, if you Googled “Minnesota homebuilder” or “Prior Lake home remodeler,” if your website is the first one on that results page, your ranking would be 1 for that specific keyword. A keyword is a word or phrase that your customers commonly search when seeking your service.

If you notice that your website isn’t ranking high enough on Google (in other words, not on the first page for your ‘moneymaking keywords’), then it’s time to put some more effort into your SEO. In addition to blogging, SEO tactics include getting other high-quality websites to link back to you (otherwise known as backlinks), having well-written web copy with keywords, writing meta titles and descriptions for all your website’s pages, technical optimization, and much, much more.

WRITTEN BY BRYCE BOYLE HOBAN, HOOK AGENCY

As a content strategist and copywriter at Hook Agency, Bryce develops and delivers clear, relevant content that addresses the customer’s pain points.

Using keyword research supplied by Hook’s SEO team, Bryce is focused on creating compelling copy to draw in high-quality prospects for clients that will also improve their search rankings.

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HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY-MARCH 2020

This page should include these three things: An emotionally persuasive story, what truly differentiates your company from others like you, and a video that focuses on how your company is the guide that helps your clients reach their goals and become their true, ideal self—otherwise known as your “story brand” (check out Donald Miller’s book “Building a StoryBrand” for more insight into this powerful marketing framework).

2019 WINNER OF EIGHT TRILLIUM AWARDS

FINISH CARPENTRY | MILLWORK | DOORS | PREFINISH CABINETRY | HARDWARE | DESIGN STUDIO

BUILDING FUTURES

IT’S EASY TO THINK OF HOMELESS PEOPLE AS DISENFRANCHISED OR PEOPLE THAT HAVE MADE HORRIBLE MISTAKES, BUT YOU WOULD NEVER THINK THAT OUR VETERANS WOULD BE A PART OF THAT POPULATION, OR THE LEADING NUMBER IN THAT POPULATION. THIS IS THAT OPPORTUNITY FOR THEM TO HAVE TWO LIVES IN ONE LIFETIME.” ED WILLIAMS, MACV

“We facilitate them being here and giving them that safe environment to grow in.”

ED WILLIAMS, CASE MANAGER WITH MINNESOTA ASSISTANCE COUNCIL FOR VETERANS (MACV)

Housing for Heroes Offers Safe, Stable Housing for Veterans The work of the Housing First Minnesota Foundation/ HomeAid Twin Cities over the past 25 years has had a lifechanging impact on the lives of hundreds of individuals as they work to end homelessness in Minnesota.

The Foundation’s collaborative efforts with shelter providers to help move their clients into stable housing is more relevant today than ever before. The recent Housing for Heroes projects illustrate the importance of this work and will serve as an important steppingstone in veterans’ lives to help them transition from homelessness to supportive transitional housing to permanent housing.

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Ed Williams is a case manager with the Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans (MACV) and is a first-hand witness to the dramatic effect stable housing has on the lives of veterans in need of a restart in life.

“Housing first. That’s one of the major barriers that needs to be removed so that veterans can begin the process to stabilizing their life,” Williams says.

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY-MARCH 2020

MACV provides housing, employment, and legal services to veterans and their families who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless across the state of Minnesota. Williams got his start with MACV through a friend who was transitioning out of the role.

Although Williams isn’t a veteran himself, he came from a family of veterans and had the experience and potential to do great things through the program.

Williams has now been with MACV for more than 15 years, and he is honored by the opportunity to serve those who have served our country.

Many of the veterans that are a living in transitional housing are coming out of incarceration or treatment, and the opportunity to feel safe and secure while accepting support allows them to grow and forge important relationships.

“It’s easy to think of homeless people as disenfranchised or people that have made horrible mistakes, but you would never think that our veterans would be a part of that population, or the leading number in that population,” explains Williams.

“This is that opportunity for them to have two lives in one lifetime.”

Williams emphasized how working with our veterans has reinforced the need for selflessness and has taught him many lessons along the way.

“I believe when you’re talking, you’re teaching, and when you’re listening, you’re learning,” he says. There’s not a day that goes by that I don’t learn just as much from them as I feel that I’m giving.”

But the need is still there.

With two homes for veterans completed and a third in progress, the Housing First Minnesota Foundation is committed to ending veteran homelessness in Minnesota.

By building and restoring shelter facilities for those in our community who are experiencing homelessness, the Foundation can greatly impact more lives for many years to come.

“It’s important to build and make housing available because the need is still there.

We’ve still got veterans that are out there,” Williams explains. “We can never give back enough for the sacrifices they and their families have given for our freedoms and our liberties.”

Housing For heroes projects St. Paul SERVICE ORGANIZATION: MACV BUILD PARTNER: LENNAR

Built a five-bedroom transitional housing residence that allows homeless veteran families to remain together rather than separated in the shelter system.

PROJECT COMPLETED IN SUMMER 2017

Maplewood SERVICE ORGANIZATION: MACV BUILD PARTNER: LENNAR

Built a transitional housing residence for homeless veteran women. The facility dramatically impacts veterans who are seeking safety, security, and consistency.

PROJECT COMPLETED IN FALL 2018

Bloomington IT’S IMPORTANT TO BUILD AND MAKE HOUSING AVAILABLE BECAUSE THE NEED IS STILL THERE. WE’VE STILL GOT VETERANS THAT ARE OUT THERE. WE CAN NEVER GIVE BACK ENOUGH FOR THE SACRIFICES THEY

SERVICE ORGANIZATION: MACV BUILD PARTNER: LENNAR

A four-bedroom home for homeless veteran men who are in need of stable housing as they receive the services and support necessary to transition into independent living.

PROJECT IS IN PROGRESS

AND THEIR FAMILIES HAVE GIVEN FOR OUR FREEDOMS AND OUR LIBERTIES.” ED WILLIAMS, MACV

DONATE TO THE HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA FOUNDATION:

TEXT GIVETODAY TO 52182

JANUARY-MARCH 2020 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

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2019

2019 A WA R D S

awa r d s Congratulations to our 2019 BIG Night award winners!

These awards recognize excellence in several areas— from quality and value of construction to business ethics.

SUSTAINABLE 9 DESIGN + BUILD • $1.2-1.5 MILLION • SHAKOPEE • 1-49 HOMES/YEAR

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HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY-MARCH 2020

C R E AT I V E H O M E S

Creative Homes strives to create and deliver an incredible customer experience for their clients. They are passionate about employee collaboration and innovation that help fuel and drive them to be the best they can be for each individual that walks through their door. Giving back and getting involved is embedded in their culture, and they are highly involved in the association.

JULKOWSKI INC.

Julkowski values quality, partnership, and sustainability, and brings their combination of design and building expertise into every project. Their team truly cares about their clients. They are involved on both the remodelers and advocacy committees, and they give back to their community by organizing and hosting fundraisers to benefit local charities. Since the company’s founding, they’ve raised over $1 million for area causes.

PELLA WINDOWS & DOORS

Pella has a steadfast commitment to quality work and focusing on the details. They are committed to incorporating new technologies, materials, and practicing environmental stewardship in each community they work in. Pella supports causes close to the hearts of their employees and the industry. They have been a proud contributor to the Housing First Minnesota Foundation for many years and were a trade partner with the recent Housing for Heroes Foundation projects, donating products to help complete homes for deserving veterans and families.

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2019 A WA R D S

C U R T S WA N S O N Swanson Homes

SUNNY BOWMAN

KRISTIN REINITZ

Dakota County Lumber Co.

Admit One, Inc.

ROBERT THOMAS HOMES, INC.

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HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY-MARCH 2020

MARLA A B S T E TA R

G O N Y E A C O M PA N I E S Eastbrooke, Cottage Grove

TONY WIENER Cardinal Homebuilders, Inc.

Kohler Co.

S E N AT O R RICH DRAHEIM

R E P R E S E N TAT I V E JIM NASH

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2019 A WA R D S

1

Charles Cudd Co., LLC

3

Sustainable 9 Design + Build

5

Creative Homes, Inc.

$2 Million+ • Edina • 1-49 Homes/Year

2

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HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY-MARCH 2020

$1.5-2 Million • Lake Elmo • 1-49 Homes/Year

4

$1.2-1.5 Million • Shakopee • 1-49 Homes/Year

$1-1.2 Million • Lake Elmo • 50+ Homes/Year

Zawadski Homes, Inc.

6

Amaris Homes, LLC

SD Custom Homes

$1-1.2 Million • St. Paul • 1-49 Homes/Year

$800,000-899,999 • Afton • 1-49 Homes/Year

R E G G I E A WA R D W I N N E R S

7

Reggie winners are selected by judging teams of builders and remodelers who visit homes within each category and judge based on excellence in design, construction quality, and value.

Stonegate Builders

$800,000-899,999 • Plymouth • 50+ Homes/Year

T R I L L I U M A WA R D W I N N E R S

Trillium Awards are presented to all entered participating associates in a Reggie-winning home.

8

Price Custom Homes

$700,000-799,999 Plymouth • 1-49 Homes/Year

9

Reiland Builders & Remodelers, Inc. 10 Johnson $600,000-699,999 • Northfield • 1-49 Homes/Year

2

Trillium Partners: Andersen Windows; Fireside Hearth & Home; Innovative Surfaces, Inc.; James Hardie Building Products; Scherer Bros. Lumber Co.; Schwieters Companies, Inc.; Warners’ Stellian Appliance; Water Doctors Water Treatment Co.

3

Trillium Partners: All, Inc.; Andersen Windows; AVID Audio Visual Installation & Design; CAMBRIA; David Charlez Designs; Distinctive Elements Tile & Design, LLC; Dwell 44; Generations Hardwood Flooring; Glowing Hearth & Home; Haferman Water Conditioning, Inc./Kinetico; James Hardie Building Products; Lampert Lumber; Scherer Bros. Lumber Co.; The Tile Shop

4

Trillium Partners: Andersen Windows; Dakota County Lumber Co.; David Charlez Designs; Ferguson Enterprises; Glowing Hearth & Home; James Hardie Building Products; Southern Lights; The Tile Shop; Twin Cities Closet Company

5

Trillium Partners: All, Inc.; Ambiance At Home; C&J Stoneworks, Inc.; Comcast, Xfinity; Contract Interiors, Inc.; Fireside Hearth & Home; Home Media Innovations, Inc.; James Hardie Building Products; Lampert Lumber; Pella Windows & Doors; Schwieters Companies, Inc.; Southern Lights

6

Trillium Partners: Lampert Lumber; Lionheart Home Staging, Inc.; Water Doctors Water Treatment Co.

7

Trillium Partners: : All, Inc.; Contract Interiors, Inc.; Fireside Hearth & Home; Kariel Staging; Scandia Custom Cabinets; Water Doctors Water Treatment Co.

8

Trillium Partners: Ferguson Enterprises; Glowing Hearth & Home; Schwieters Companies, Inc.

9

Trillium Partners: : All, Inc.; Ambiance At Home; Contract Interiors, Inc.; Fireside Hearth & Home; Minnesota Tile & Stone

Robert Thomas Homes, Inc.

$700,000-799,999 • Lakeville • 50+ Homes/Year

10 Trillium Partners: : All, Inc.; Glowing Hearth &

Home; RJA Cabinetry & Design; Scherer Bros.

Lumber Co.; Southern Lights

11 Trillium Partners: : All, Inc.; Ambiance At Home;

Thomas Homes, Inc. 11 Robert $600,000-699,999 • Lakeville • 50+ Homes/Year

Contract Interiors, Inc.; Fireside Hearth & Home; Minnesota Tile & Stone

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2019 A WA R D S

LAND HOMES 12 KEY $550,000-599,999 • Woodbury • 50+ Homes/Year

Homes 14 M/I $500,000-549,999 • Carver • 50+ Homes/Year

Lyn Construction, LLC 13 Lee $500,000-549,999 • Waconia • 1-49 Homes/Year

Cudd Co., LLC 15 Charles $450,000-499,999 • Woodbury • 1-49 Homes/Year

Thomas Homes, Inc. 16 Robert $450,000-499,999 • Lakeville • 50+ Homes/Year

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HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY-MARCH 2020

Custom Homes 17 Price $400,000-449,999 • Zimmerman • 1-49 Homes/Year

Thomas Homes, Inc. 18 Robert $400,000-449,999 • St. Michael • 50+ Homes/Year

Construction, Inc. 19 Sherco $300,000-399,999 • Lindstrom • 1-49 Homes/Year

Homes 20 Benzinger $300,000-399,999 • Otsego • 50+ Homes/Year

Construction, Inc. 21 Semler $299,999 & Under • Isanti • 1-49 Homes/Year

Homes 22 Benzinger $299,999 & Under • Vadnais Heights • 50+ Homes/Year

12 Trillium Partners: All, Inc.; Southern Lights; The

Energy Network Worldwide, LLC

13 Trillium Partners: FocalPoint Flooring Cabinets

& Design; Glowing Hearth & Home; The Energy Network Worldwide, LLC; Warners’ Stellian Appliance

14 Trillium Partners: Creative Lighting, Inc.; Fireside Hearth & Home; FocalPoint Flooring Cabinets & Design 15 Trillium Partners: All, Inc.; Fireside Hearth &

Home; James Hardie Building Products; Minnesota Tile & Stone; Pella Windows & Doors; Scherer Bros. Lumber Co.; Shaughnessy Flooring; Southern Lights

16 Trillium Partners: All, Inc.; Ambiance At Home;

Contract Interiors, Inc.; Creative Lighting, Inc.; Fireside Hearth & Home; Minnesota Tile & Stone

17 Trillium Partners: Ferguson Enterprises;

Schwieters Companies, Inc.

18 Trillium Partners: All, Inc.; Ambiance At Home;

Contract Interiors, Inc.; Fireside Hearth & Home; Minnesota Tile & Stone

19 Trillium Partners: Croix Design & Drafting, Inc.;

Lampert Lumber; Warners’ Stellian Appliance

20 Trillium Partners: Ferguson Enterprises;

FocalPoint Flooring Cabinets & Design; Pella Windows & Doors; Scherer Bros.

Lumber Co.; Schwieters Cabinetry; Schwieters Companies, Inc.

21 Trillium Partners: Croix Design & Drafting, Inc.;

Lampert Lumber; Warners’ Stellian Appliance

22 Trillium Partners: Ferguson Enterprises;

FocalPoint Flooring Cabinets & Design; Scherer Bros. Lumber Co.; Schwieters Cabinetry; Schwieters Companies, Inc.

JANUARY-MARCH 2020 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

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2019 A WA R D S

R O M A A WA R D W I N N E R S

The Remodeler of Merit Awards (ROMAs) recognize our remodeler members for quality and value in remodeling projects that range from baths, kitchens, and additions to whole-house remodels. Entries are judged on creativity in meeting the unique challenges of remodeling, and in successfully meeting the needs, desires, and budgets of their clients.

Kraemer & Sons, Inc. 23 John Total House: $800,000+ • Wayzata

T R I L L I U M A WA R D W I N N E R S

Trillium Awards are presented to all entered participating associates in a ROMA-winning home.

23 Trillium Partners: Granite-Tops, LLC;

Haferman Water Conditioning, Inc./ Kinetico; In-Focus Systems

24 Trillium Partners: Andersen Windows;

FocalPoint Flooring Cabinets & Design; Lampert Lumber; Warners’ Stellian Appliance

Homes, LLC 24 Alma Total House: $400,000-800,000 • Minneapolis

25 Trillium Partners: CAMBRIA; Ferguson

Enterprises; Lampert Lumber

26 Trillium Partners: Lampert Lumber;

Manomin Resawn Timbers

28 Trillium Partners: All, Inc.; Alpine

Hardwood; In-Focus Systems; Scherer Bros. Lumber Co.

30 Trillium Partners: All, Inc.; Alpine

Hardwood; Distinctive Drywall & Painting; Pella Windows & Doors; Scherer Bros.

Lumber Co.

31 Trillium Partners: Contract Interiors, Inc.;

Manomin Resawn Timbers; Warners’ Stellian Appliance

Inc. 25 AMEK, Total House: Under $400,000 • Bloomington

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HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY-MARCH 2020

Peterson Designbuild, Inc. 27 MA Outdoor Living • Edina

Builders, Inc. 26 Highmark Special • Inver Grove Heights

Kraemer & Sons, Inc. 28 John Lower Level: $125,000+ • Eden Prairie

Basement Company 29 Finished Lower Level: Under $125,000 • Plymouth

Kraemer & Sons, Inc. 30 John Kitchen: $115,000+ • Orono

LLC 31 Ispiri, Kitchen: $65,000-115,000 • Lake Elmo

Design Build 32 Locale Kitchen: Under $65,000 • Minneapolis

JANUARY-MARCH 2020 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

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Builders, Inc. 33 Highmark Interior: $200,000+ • Sunfish Lake

Northern Builders, LLC 34 Great Interior: Under $200,000 • Oakdale

Design Build + Reinvent 35 Jkath Bathroom: $60,000+ • Dayton

36 construction2style Bathroom: Under $60,000 • Eden Prairie

Hometech, Inc. 37 Hansen Addition: $300,000+ • Excelsior

33 Trillium Partners: Lampert Lumber;

Warners’ Stellian Appliance

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The Digest

Homes, LLC 38 Alma Addition: Under $300,000 • Dayton

37 Trillium Partners: Modern Design Cabinetry;

Scherer Bros. Lumber Co.

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY-MARCH 2020

38 Trillium Partners: FocalPoint Flooring

Cabinets & Design; Lampert Lumber; Warners’ Stellian Appliance

Same commitment.

Same values.

Same family.

Since 1930.

www.SchererBros.com

S U P P O R T I N G L O C A L B U I L D E R S F O R G E N E R AT I O N S

SEEN + HEARD

Media in the

From the BIG Night to our latest Housing for Heroes groundbreaking and everything in between, check out some of the places Housing First Minnesota has been mentioned on social and in the press this past quarter.

@HOUSINGFIRSTMN

Green path conference More than 100 attendees gathered for our annual Green Building Path Conference where speakers and panelists covered topics like the path to building green, the exterior wall envelope, wall insulation, and marketing and communicating your commitment to green building.

@terra_firma_mn

Minneapolis, Minnesota

@derushaj

Mystic Lake Casino Hotel

@j.becherandassociates Mystic Lake Casino Hotel

Health insurance benefit Housing First Minnesota announced its latest member benefit: a fully insured association health plan through Blue Cross Blue Shield.

Minnesota trade groups offering new health plans

@swansonhomes

Mystic Lake Casino Hotel

Despite rules suspension, associations venturing in.

the big night Whether sharing a pic with a colleague, showcasing an award, or dancing the night away at the after-party, Instagram was all abuzz with member photos at the BIG Night.

Housing for heroes

Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans

Our Foundation broke ground on its third Housing for Heroes project in collaboration with Lennar Minnesota. Once constructed, this home will provide veterans with stable housing as they receive services and support from the Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans to transition into independent living.

October 22, 2019

Warners’ Stellian Appliance November 9, 2019

rebrand Bloomington donates land to build home for homeless veterans

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HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY-MARCH 2020

During this year’s BIG Night we celebrated the completion of our rebrand to Housing First Minnesota. Members shared why the rebrand was important and what the name means to them in our video debuted at the event!

We specialize in:

THE MINNESOTA MULCH LOG

• Rough Cut Mowing • Silt Fence Installation • Hydro Seeding • Seed and Mulch • Tree and Safety Fence • Inlet Protection • Erosion Blanket

It is a 10” geotextile fabric sewn together and filled with recycled wood product. It’s reusable and can be easily moved to another location. The Minnesota Mulch Log is a very effective perimeter control device and is more aesthetically pleasing providing a great alternative to silt fence.

• Reusable • Low Maintenance • Ditch Checks • Cost Effective

Exceptional Service. Always.

763-262-SILT (7458)

• Inlet Protection • Perimeter Control • Easy to Install • Self Anchoring

CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE WWW.EROSIONWORKS.NET Roofing Siding Windows Tools Gutter

Serving the Professional Contractor

Accessories

ABC Supply is the largest wholesale distributor of roofing in the United States and one of the largest distributors of siding, windows, and select exterior and interior products. Founded in 1982, ABC currently has more than 760 locations nationwide. Specializing in select product lines and categories, ABC offers the professional contractor competitive pricing, superior service, and the highest quality building materials available.

Check us out online at abcsupply.com or visit us in: St Paul - Minneapolis - Coon Rapids - Savage - Maple Plain - Roseville - St Cloud - Rochester - Oronoco and Mankato

JANUARY-MARCH 2020 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

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45

SEEN + HEARD

New members

&

SEPT.–NOV. 2019

Member News Announcements HAVE NEWS?

ADOR, LLC Todd Simning 952-361-0832

Advance Surveying & Engineering Co. Mimi Wrob 952-474-7964

Builder Jones, LLC Andrea Paul 952-378-4122 BuilderJones.com

C. Alan Homes, LLC

SEND YOUR ANNOUNCEMENTS TO LAURA@HOUSINGFIRSTMN.ORG

Terry Robertson 763-228-1785 C-AlanHomes.com

Caritas Builders, Inc.

Fidelity Bank Names Brian Bueche Chief Credit Officer

Matthew Simones 612-328-0900

Fidelity Bank has named Brian Bueche as Senior Vice President, Chief Credit Officer. Brian brings 28 years of commercial banking experience, including the origination, servicing, and credit administration of commercial banking products. In his new role with Fidelity Bank, he will provide strategic leadership for overall bank credit quality and risk management as well as supporting the bank’s profitable growth while preserving the long-term integrity and sustainability of the bank.

Greta Whittenberg 651-373-0593 CreativEndeavor.com

Creativ Endeavor

Crimson Copper Plumbing

Michael Wickenhauser 952-356-7152 CrimsonCopper.com

Kelly Enterprise Mike Kelly 763-644-3705 KellyEnterprise.net

L&W Supply

Paul Greenhagen Receives National Courage in Leadership Award Congratulations to Westwood Professional Services, Inc. President/CEO Paul Greenhagen, who was awarded the prestigious 2019 Jerry Allen Courage in Leadership Award at Zweig Group’s national Elevate AEC Conference. The award is given annually to one individual working in the architecture, engineering, planning, or environmental industry who has made a tremendous impact on their firm through courageous leadership.

Grant Mixdorf 612-400-4198 LWSupply.com

North Risk Partners Gary Helm 651-379-7906 NorthRiskPartners.com

Prima Construction Kim Studham 612-888-5959 Prima-Construction.com

Re/Max Advantage Plus David Miller 763-447-7310 DaveSellsMNHomes.com

RT Urban Homes

New Member Recruiters The Builders Group

Kroiss Development, Inc

John Kraemer & Sons, Inc.

Robert Thomas Homes, Inc.

Built Strong Exteriors, LLC

Admit One, Inc.

Stu Thompson

Gray Kraemer

Ken Coppes

Todd Simning

Jocelyn Wilson Hafertepe

Kristin Reinitz

Carole Griffith 952-495-6500

The Cabinet Store + Culina Design Luke Prettyman 952-378-4949 TheCabinetStore.com

Urban Surfaces Krysten Stiffler 952-223-9845 UrbanSurfaces.com

White Birch Design, LLC

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HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY-MARCH 2020

Angela Barnhart 763-370-1644 WhiteBirchDesignLLC.com

Build Something Extraordinary With Natural Stone Veneer From Hedberg Supply

Hedberg West - Plymouth 1205 Nathan Lane North (763) 545-4400

Hedberg East - Stillwater 8400 60th Street North (651) 748-3158

hedbergsupply.com JANUARY-MARCH 2020 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

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47

SPEEDWAY FUELS MINNESOTA FLEETS

NOW OPEN:

The Speedway Business Fleet Card Program

• Save Money • Save Time • Increased Security

Minnesota fleets save up to

• Broad Acceptance • Mobile Management • Superior Support

For more information or to apply, contact:

5

Rob Schafer 612-212-7496 Robert.Schafer@wexinc.com

¢

per gallon* with the Speedway Business Fleet Card

SPD_223487_PA 12/19

* Subject to credit approval and applicable law. Rebate offer applies to all gallons fueled at Speedway locations. Rebates are not applied at the time of purchase - they appear as an account credit on the same billing statement with your monthly purchases. Rebates are subject to change without prior notice.

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HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY-MARCH 2020

HEALTH INSURANCE ENROLLMENT This new plan will offer our members greater health insurance options and potentially increased savings. Our new association health plan is fully insured

by Blue Cross Blue Shield, managed

by North Risk Partners and is available through any Blue Cross agent.

To start the enrollment process, contact your insurance agent. If you have any further questions, please contact Heather Griffis, your membership manager, at heather@housingfirstmn.org.

New Vehicle Discount

Member Discounts

JEFF BELZER’S

Save $750 from one of the most popular auto dealers in Minnesota when you purchase any NEW vehicle. Other great incentives include free service loaner vehicle, free pickup and drop-off for service work, and express commercial service.

Housing First Minnesota has brought together an array of members-only benefits that positively impact your bottom line. We seek companies that thoroughly understand the building industry and provide products at rates generally not available on the street. Give these folks a chance to see what they can do.

We think you will find they can save you money and provide you better service.

Jarret Petsch 952-469-7063

Product Discounts

Gas Discounts

HOMESPHERE

HOLIDAY

Learn how you can join over 2,000 builders receiving incentives and rebates from building product manufacturers.

Save 5 cents on every gallon of gas from Holiday Stationstores.

Special promotion for Housing First Minnesota members who are new applicants—10 cents off the first 90 days

Melissa Wolf 331-431-7433 MWolf@HomeSphere.com Connecting new home builders to the top manufacturing brands nationwide

Don Keis 952-830-8889 Don.Keis@HolidayCompanies.com

Learn how you can join over 2,000 builders receiving incentives / rebates from building product manufacturers

SPEEDWAY

Speedway is now in Minnesota!

Save up to 10 cents per gallon with a Speedway Fleet Card for your business.

Robert Schafer 612-212-7496 Robert.Schafer@WEXInc.com Speedwayfleetcards.com

Service Discount VERIZON

Get Started today!

(331) 431-7433 | mwolf@homesphere.com North Central Local Contact Melissa Wolf - Regional Sales manager www.homesphere.com

SHERWIN WILLIAMS

Competitive and customizable pricing for members on architectural coatings, chemical coatings, industrial coatings, and paint supplies/rollers. Members also have the option of receiving a local quote on wall coverings, floor coverings, window treatments, and spray equipment.

HomeSphere 1/4 Ad.indd 1

6/6/17 2:48 PM

Save 22% off monthly cell service or 18% off personal cell service for companies performing a significant amount of physical construction services, as well as architects, engineers, and surveyors.

NPP 800-810-3909 CustomerService@MyNPP.com

NPP 800-810-3909 CustomerService@MyNPP.com

JANUARY-MARCH 2020 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

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49

SPONSORS

DIAMOND • $70,000+

Elite Sponsors

PLATINUM • $50,000-69,000

Housing First Minnesota would not be as strong or successful without our Elite Sponsors. Thank you to our biggest associate supporters!

Housing First Minnesota is fortunate to have a very dedicated supplier community that is committed to success for our builders and remodelers. Many of our suppliers demonstrate that commitment by becoming Elite Partners. These companies are engaged in our association’s activities and programs at an exceptional level. We thank them for their commitment to the association and to our builders and remodelers.

GOLD • $35,000-49,999

Our Elite Partners know that a single sponsorship or ad in a publication doesn’t by itself create business. It takes consistent involvement over time, and what’s most important for these industry leaders is that our builders and remodelers see their passion for the industry’s success.

© 2019 Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Co., Inc.

We wouldn’t be the powerful association we are today advancing the American dream of homeownership for Minnesotans without our Elite Partners. If you are a builder or remodeler, keep these special partners in mind as you consider suppliers for your business. They are inspired to help drive your success. Thank you, Elite Partners, and best wishes for a great year ahead.

SILVER • $25,000-34,999

BRONZE • $15,000–24,999

GARY KRAEMER

DAVID SIEGEL

2020 HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA PRESIDENT

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Kolbe Windows & Doors leads the industry with innovative products that push the boundaries and defy the limits of function, performance and style. With numerous options and custom solutions, create Coal Black frames to showcase the views, while bringing a modern edge to a traditional style.

7545 Washington Ave. S | Edina, MN kolbegallerytwincities.com I 866.460.4403

50

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HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY-MARCH 2020

BATC_JanMar20.indd 1

Contact Kolbe Gallery Twin Cities to help bring your vision to life. Our extensive showroom and expert staff will help you select the right Kolbe products for your project.

12/2/19 4:21 PM

SERVING THE TWIN CITIES & WESTERN WISCONSIN

GARAGE DOORS

CHI Sterling

DISCOVER SUPERIOR SERVICE AND PRODUCTS AT A COMPETITIVE PRICE Sale & Installation of Doors & Openers • Custom Wood & Steel Doors Residential & Commercial Services

BlackHawkGarageDoor.com 952-894-0970

7940–12th Avenue S. Bloomington, MN

715-688-3200

370–8th Avenue Baldwin, WI

PROUD MEMBER OF

ONE-DAY GARAGE FLOOR COATINGS EXTEND THE LIFE OF YOUR GARAGE FLOOR WITH DURABILITY AND FUNCTION Single Day Installation • 15 Year Warranty 12 Hours to Walk On, 24 Hours to Drive On

Painting Excellence Trust. Same name, same people, same proven results since 1985.

Capacity. Over 100 professional painters can accommodate nearly any demand, large or small!

The best home painters in the business for over 30 years.

Simplicity. 1 manager on your project from bid to close.

Ability. From custom stained or glazed millwork to metallic gloss

cabinets, no finish is beyond us.

Convenience.

Newly expanded pre-finish shop with multiple spray booths allows us to finish anything from a late cabinet to a full house of windows.

952-469-5901 www.cityscapepainting.com

SEEN + HEARD

The BIG Night More than 800 attendees came together at the 2019 Building Industry Gala at Mystic Lake Center to celebrate the accomplishments of the year and honor the best in the industry.

A crowd favorite, WCCO’s Jason DeRusha returned to emcee our biggest event of the year.

By the end of the night, more than 200 honors were awarded making this an incredible night to remember!

October 25, 2019

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HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY-MARCH 2020

BIG SPONSORS

RED CARPET SPONSOR

WINNER’S CIRCLE SPONSOR

EMCEE SPONSOR

BRONZE SPONSORS ABC Supply Co., Inc. CenterPoint Energy Cityscape Painting Contractors, Inc. Excelsior Capital Fireside Hearth & Home Hook Agency

GOLD SPONSORS

LOUNGE SPONSORS

SILVER SPONSOR

IDC-Automatic Garage Door

Twin Cities Closet Company Water Doctors Water Treatment Co.

VALET SPONSOR Shaw/Stewart Lumber Co.

Pella Windows & Doors

DRINK TICKET SPONSORS

Synergy Products

Shaughnessy Flooring Bayer Built Woodworks, Inc.

The Tile Shop

JANUARY-MARCH 2020 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

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53

SEEN + HEARD

KickStart New and seasoned members joined us for our bimonthly KickStart events to discover how to get involved and make the most of their membership.

October 10 + December 12, 2019

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HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY-MARCH 2020

Upcoming Dates February 4, 2020 9:30-11 a.m.

April 8, 2020 3:30-5 p.m.

June 17, 2020 12-1:30 p.m.

Helping members manage the largest challenge they face— the subcontracted exposure.

Professionally Monitoring Professionally Tracking and Monitoring Your Certificates of Insurance Your Documents & The BAM-Endorsed solution helping members Certificates of Insurancemanage the largest challenge they face… the subcontracted exposure.

www.RMC123.com www.RMC123.com

info@RMC123.com |

info@RMC123.com 952-681-2391 612-366-0345

“

What a diierence a year makes!

We got more done in the first year with The Resultants than we did in several years prior.

- Bill Wetzel, CEO, United Business Mail

www.theResultants.com

JANUARY-MARCH 2020 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

“

Make Your Business Go Further, Faster™

The Digest

55

PAVING THE BEST, MOST EFFICIENT, TOP QUALITY ASPHALT SOLUTIONS IN THE TWIN CITIES

PAVING, REPAIRS & SEALCOATING 03 HC_brochure0410.pdf 03 HC_brochure0410.pdf 1 4/10/18 1

03 HC_brochure0410.pdf

4/10/18 5:36 PM

5:36 PM

952.894.9078

1

4/10/18

5:36 PM

www.jwasphalt.com

info@jwasphalt.com

900 West 128th Street, Suite 205 | Burnsville, MN 55337-2455

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Call usCall forus a free for adone consultation free right consultation today: 952-894-9078 952-894-9078 Call us for a free consultation today: 952-894-9078

Shaun Johnson Shaun Johnson Shaun@HamillConcrete.com Shaun@HamillConcrete.com Shaun Johnson Info@HamillConcrete.com Shaun Johnson Shaun@HamillConcrete.com 612.366.4247 612.366.4247www.HamillConcrete.com www.HamillConcrete.com 952-894-9078 www.HamillConcrete.com 612.366.4247 www.HamillConcrete.com

YOUYOU are our are #1 ourpriority. #1 priority.

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SEEN + HEARD

Green Path Building Conference The annual Green Path Building Conference brought over a hundred Minnesota industry members together for a day of green homebuilding insight and inspiration. The half-day event featured speakers and panelists discussing the latest in green homebuilding techniques and marketing and communicating your commitment to green building.

2019 CONFERENCE SPONSOR

November 7, 2019

JANUARY-MARCH 2020 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

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57

SEEN + HEARD

Member Buck Auction Members celebrated 2019 by spending their hard-earned Member Bucks on some pretty cool stuff. Bucks were used to enter prize drawings, bid on live auction prizes, and enter cash drawings.

November 15, 2019

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59

SEEN + HEARD

State of the Industry We launched into the new year by inducting our Housing First Minnesota and Foundation leadership, celebrating the success of 2019, and hearing from economist Elliot Eisenberg at our State of Industry.

December 12, 2019

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HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY-MARCH 2020

PRESENTING SPONSOR

FORECAST SPONSORS

JANUARY-MARCH 2020 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

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61

TOP 10

Top 10 of 2019 WRITTEN BY DAVID SIEGEL

Over the past 10 years, your association has systematically and diligently worked its plan to build a modern, comprehensive advocacy program so housing and homeownership could elevate and take its rightful place at the Legislature, with regulators, in elections, and even with the public.

That thoughtful approach is bringing results, and 2019 saw several key actions that advanced the American dream of homeownership for Minnesotans.

I’ll share the top 10 here.

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HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY-MARCH 2020

1

Rebrand

Most significantly, we completed the rebrand of our association to Housing First Minnesota. This new brand extends our reach, encompassing our role as the leading voice of our industry and engaging influencers, policymakers, and homebuyers. We’re not a special interest group representing builders and remodelers, we’re a powerful statewide enterprise that can tell the story of the value of homeownership. Some 85% of Minnesotans want to own homes, and Housing First Minnesota as a brand tells that story.

2

Legislative Bodies

Our elevated political influence led to the creation of two key bodies at the Minnesota Legislature that will help us address the barriers to affordable homes. The Legislative Commission on Affordability and the Senate Select Committee on Homeownership give us an exceptional opportunity to share the challenges preventing us from building enough homes to meet the demands created by our growing and changing population. The Select Committee has met several times and found our data credible and enlightening. We expect policy initiatives to be generated by the Committee in the coming session.

3

Both the Priced Out and permit studies furthered the housing conversation and provided legislators and other elected officials with critical information to make informed housing decisions.

These two projects reflect the growing influence of our Foundation, which earned the coveted Charities Review Council approval in 2019 and completed an aggressive three-year strategic plan. Our goal is to end homelessness in Minnesota, and we can’t think of a more worthy and related cause for our members.

4

8

Groundbreaking Research

Legal Action Protecting Our Industry

It’s not enough to have a strong lobbying team; to bring forward powerful and groundbreaking research; and to elevate via a rebrand. To be successful representing our industry and homeowners, we need to be prepared to go to court on their behalf. We have a strong history here— winning cases that eliminated the sprinkler mandate, and defeated Woodbury’s transportation impact fees. We once again stepped into the fray challenging the City of Dayton for yet another attempt at illegal impact fees.

5

Regulatory Engagement Advances Affordability

And we need strong and impactful advocacy with regulatory agencies. We were deeply involved in the discussions surrounding the latest building code, energy code, plumbing code, and electrical code. Additionally, we engaged our Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry on the building code issue of storm shelters. Our position that they exceed the building code prevailed, and cities that had storm shelter requirements for slab-on-grade villas have removed the mandate. We appreciate DLI’s action on this issue.

6

Home Tour Innovation

In the Parade of Homes printed guidebook, we expanded our builder home descriptions to include an option for three photos, modified our coming soon community entries, and doubled the space provided to remodelers so they can show before and after pictures of projects. We also tested some new digital advertising approaches and tested a Parade of Homes app, with intent to roll out the full version for this spring’s tour.

7

Housing Homeless Veterans

The Housing First Minnesota Foundation is well along in the process of building its third shelter for homeless veterans to be operated by the Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans (MACV). Located in Bloomington, the facility is being constructed by Lennar and will house up to four unrelated homeless male veterans in transition to more permanent housing. The Foundation is also rehabbing a unit for Avivo in Minneapolis, in which women undergoing chemical dependency recovery and obtaining career training live with their children temporarily.

Health Insurance for our Industry

Our industry is comprised in large part of thousands of smaller firms for whom health insurance has been a struggle. In 2019, we were able to aggregate our buying power and bring our members together for a new health insurance program through Blue Cross Blue Shield. It’s an important step in our continuing effort to make construction a career of choice for Minnesota’s hard-working youth (through Project Build Minnesota). The program is available throughout the state and we anticipate that it will aid us as we recruit and retain members.

9

Showcasing Energy Efficiency

Minnesota’s Green Path has now provided Home Performance Reports to more than 21,000 newly built homes over the past six years. And the data is stunning— our average HERS index is 51, the best in the nation among states that test a significant number of homes. Now, Green Path has added a new opportunity for interested builders by introducing the Designated Green Path Builder. Designated Green Path Builders agree to test a minimum of 75% of the new homes they build and to attend required professional development at the Minnesota Green Path Conference.

More than 30 builders have already signed up and program manager Tom Gavaras anticipates additional interest in 2020.

10

Contractor University Grows

Education programs offered by Housing First Minnesota, including Contractor University, reached more than 1,000 students in 2019. In addition, Contractor University achieved prestigious accreditation through the International Association for Continuing Education and Training, which allows Contractor University to expand its online training platform. More online courses, including contractor pre-licensure training, will be offered in 2020.

Don’t miss a beat.

Follow Housing First Minnesota

JANUARY-MARCH 2020 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

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63

CENTRAL MARBLE PRODUCTS, INC. Lose the Glass, Keep the Convenience The Heat & Glo Phoenix Gas Fireplace offers a large glass-free view and the authentic look of a traditional wood fireplace, but with the simplicity of gas. ®

CULTURED MARBLE, GRANITE & ONYX VANITY TOPS | WALL PANELS | WINDOW SILLS SHOWER BASES

View our Elite Granite Series and Designer Edges at centralmarbleproducts.com 320-393-2085 | 800-422-0356 | Rice, MN WE MANUFACTURE AND INSTALL OUR PRODUCTS! OUTSTANDING QUALITY AND SERVICE SINCE 1976

Set your projects apart by including the right fireplace.

Visit Fireside-Pro.com to learn more.

MEMBER OF

Advertisers ABC Supply Co., Inc.........................................................45

In-Focus Systems................................... Inside Back Cover

Arrow Building Center....................................................... 1

James Hardie Building Products.............Inside Front Cover

Bell Bank Mortgage......................................................... 15

Jeff Belzer’s...................................................................48

Black Hawk Garage Door..................................................51

JL Schwieters Bldg. Supply/Const., Inc........................... 19

CenterPoint Energy...........................................................2

J & W Asphalt, Inc...........................................................56

Central Marble Products, Inc...........................................64

Kolbe Gallery Twin Cities................................... Back Cover

Cityscape Painting Contractors, Inc..................................51

Lampert Lumber.............................................................. 11

Corporate 4 Insurance Agency, Inc................................... 47

Lyman Lumber Co.............................................................5

Erosion Works................................................................45

Norbord, Inc....................................................................26

Excelsior Capital...............................................................7

RMC Solutions, LLC.........................................................55

Ferguson Enterprises.......................................................8

Scherer Bros. Lumber Co................................................43

Fireside Hearth & Home..................................................64

Schwieters Companies, Inc.............................................29

Hedberg Supply.............................................................. 47

Speedway/WEX..............................................................48

IDC-Automatic Garage Door............................................23

The Resultants................................................................55

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3305 Republic Ave, St Louis Park, MN 55426 │ 952.929.0000 │ 101 Bridgepoint Way #130, South St Paul, MN 55075

Š 2019 Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Co., Inc.

Kolbe Windows & Doors leads the industry with innovative products that push the boundaries and defy the limits of function, performance and style. With numerous options and custom solutions, create Coal Black frames to showcase the views, while bringing a modern edge to a traditional style.

7545 Washington Ave. S | Edina, MN kolbegallerytwincities.com I 866.460.4403

Contact Kolbe Gallery Twin Cities to help bring your vision to life. Our extensive showroom and expert sta will help you select the right Kolbe products for your project.